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Have a plan for pets in case COVID-19 strikes you

The South Jersey Regional Animal Shelter has joined with the Humane Society of the United States and seven New Jersey-based animal welfare organizations to provide guidelines for pet owners in case they are impacted by COVID-19. We urge you to have a plan in place for your pets should you be unable to care for them due to the need to isolate yourself or be hospitalized.

Barney(Photo: Provided)

Shelters are urging residents to have a preparedness plan in place:

1. Find a temporary caregiver to take on your pets if you are hospitalized. The best place for your pet, even if you are sick, is with you in your home. However, you may become too ill to care for your pet. It’s important to identify two potential caregivers and speak with them so they’re prepared should they be called to action. Contact neighbors, family, friends, pet-sitters and boarding facilities. The most ideal situation for you and your pets is for them to remain in the temporary care of a trusted caregiver and out of an animal shelter.

2. Prepare a pet supply kit. It may not seem necessary today, but having proper supplies and information in place in advance is critical if you find yourself in an emergency situation.

Your kit should include:

 Name and contact information for the person who can care for your pets

 Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to is no longer able to help

 Food, treats, a leash, toys and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet for at least two weeks

 A crate or carrier to transport your pet

 Vaccination records

 Collar with ID tags (don’t forget to make sure their microchip information is up to date)

 Medications and prescriptions, along with instructions

 Daily care instructions

 Your veterinarian's contact information

3. Know the facts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence that people can get COVID-19 from pets. The best place for your animal is inside the home they know and love. If you aren’t feeling well but are still able to provide care for your pet, please keep them at home with you where they’re most comfortable. With your whole family on board and a plan in place, you’ll feel better about your pet’s safety knowing they’re in good hands no matter what challenges may arise.

Dumbo(Photo: Provided)

In addition, keeping area animal shelters free of long-term care animals allows them to be better prepared for the onset of kitten season, stray pets and animal care cases that require immediate attention.

In the midst of this crisis, animal shelters provide essential services to both animals and their owners. The staff at SJRAS is here to help in whatever way they can. If you have questions or concerns, please call us at (856) 691-1500 or go to our website at sjras.org for assistance.

Shelter Needs: The pandemic is not just a human crisis, it has and will have a tremendous impact on shelter animals across the nation. Given the “stay at home” order, we ask that you consider giving monetary donations or gift cards to pet and grocery outlets to help us care for our homeless pets in order to keep the risks of exposure down for everyone. Thank you and stay safe!

Fuego(Photo: Provided)

Dogs of the Week

Barney is a very nice, 1-year-old mixed breed. He’s a little shy in new situations and will need some confidence building but he is a real love bug! He loves people and companionship and he is easy to handle. Barney is in a foster home, if you were interested in meeting him please fill out an adoption questionnaire online.

Dumbo is a sweet, shy, laid-back puppy. He is a 6-month-old mixed breed with loads of love to give.

Hershey is a handsome 3-year-old mixed breed. He is playful, loves toys and knows the sit command. He will need some work on basic doggy manners but he is smart and eager to please. He is currently in a foster home so if you are interested in meeting him please fill out an adoption questionnaire online.

Petunia is a pretty 2-year-old mixed breed. She is slow to warm up and will need a home where her people will take things slowly and allow her to become comfortable. She is not suited to a home with cats. Petunias currently in a foster home, if you are interested in meeting her please fill out out an adoption questionnaire online.

Fuego is a large, happy-go-lucky mixed breed that has a fun and outgoing personality. He is a bouncy guy that loves everyone. Hugo is currently in a foster home, if you’re interested in meeting him please fill out an adoption questionnaire online.

Trina is a lovely, 6-year-old boxer mix. She is friendly, well-mannered and eager to please. Trina is a sweet, affectionate pup with loads of love to give.

Roody is a handsome little 2-year-old pit mix. This happy, friendly boy that loves everyone. Rudy is currently in a foster home, so if you’re interested in meeting him please fill out an adoption questionnaire online.

Hershey(Photo: Provided)

Roody(Photo: Provided)

Trina(Photo: Provided)

Petunia(Photo: Provided)

Cats of the Week

Aquamarine is an outgoing female kitten who’s friendly and ready to explore her future!

Big Momma says: “I will be your therapy cat and sleep next to you and keep you calm and comfy!” Adopt Big Momma for some Big Love!

Big Daddy is about 5 years old. He needs a patient owner who will earn his trust. He can be shy but when he settles down he is loving and wants to snuggle and be petted.

Ezra is a sweet, tolerant little fella who is scared to death. When you pick him up he snuggles into you trying to hide from the confusing world he has ended up in. He's a good boy who purrs nonstop when you show him affection. He desperately needs to get out of the shelter and into a home.

GiGi loves her head scratched and has a very loud purr; she is content to just chill out.

Tonka loves to cuddle and get belly rubs. He doesn’t like to be picked up but definitely likes to be loved.